Fold to 3-Bet from CO

Overview

Fold to 3-Bet from CO is a common stat in poker tracking software. It measures a player’s tendency to fold when facing a 3-Bet after having raised first in from the Cut Off (CO) position. This stat is calculated from historical hand data: the numerator is the number of times the player opened from CO, faced a 3-Bet, and folded; the denominator is the total number of times the player opened from CO and faced a 3-Bet (excluding calls or re-raises).

Usage

• Exploiting opponents: If a player has an excessively high Fold to 3-Bet rate from CO (e.g., >55%), opponents can 3-Bet them more widely from the blinds to steal pots repeatedly.
• Adjusting your own strategy: Players can spot leaks by reviewing their own stats. For instance, if the fold rate is too high, consider using a tighter opening range from CO or increasing your defense frequency (e.g., calling or 4-Betting) against 3-Bets.
• Range construction: In a balanced strategy, players typically aim for a moderate fold-to-3-bet rate to avoid being exploited by frequent 3-Bets.

Typical Values

Generally, a reasonable Fold to 3-Bet rate from CO for professional players falls between 35%–45%. A rate below 30% indicates over-defending, which may be punished by opponents widening their value 3-Betting range; a rate above 55% is too passive and leaves you vulnerable to aggressive players. Specific numbers should be adjusted for opponent style, stack depth, and game type (cash vs. tournament).

Notes

• This stat requires a sufficiently large sample (usually at least 500 CO open-face-3-Bet situations) to be meaningful.
• In tournaments, due to ICM pressure, fold rates may skew higher, but the term itself does not discuss specific tournament data.
• Poker strategies evolve, but the definition of the term remains constant; strategic recommendations may shift with the meta.